A framework towards technology-enhanced payroll governance: optimising salary systems at Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (Zimparks)

Abstract

This study examined the influence of technology-enhanced payroll governance at the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (Zimparks). Four independent variables were studied: digital records, integrated platforms, automated systems and real-time processing. The dependent variable was payroll governance. A positivist research philosophy and a deductive approach guided the study. A quantitative cross-sectional survey design was adopted, targeting a population of 1,513 Zimparks employees. A stratified random sample of 306 respondents was drawn using the Krejcie and Morgan (1970) formula. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire delivered via Google Forms. A response rate of 90.5% was achieved, yielding 277 usable responses. Data were analysed using SPSS version 29.0. Descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation analysis, principal component factor analysis and multiple linear regression were employed. Cronbach’s Alpha values ranged from 0.908 to 0.966, confirming strong internal consistency across all constructs. All four independent variables were positively and significantly correlated with payroll governance at p < 0.001. The regression model explained 92.2% of the variance in payroll governance (R² = 0.922, Adj. R² = 0.920, F(4, 272) = 799.40, p < 0.001). Automated systems (β = 0.425, p < 0.001) emerged as the strongest predictor of payroll governance, followed by digital records (β = 0.355, p < 0.001) and integrated platforms (β = 0.233, p < 0.001). Real-time processing (β = − 0.007, p = 0.872) did not independently predict payroll governance when the other variables were controlled for. The study concluded that automated systems, digital records, and integrated platforms are significant determinants of payroll governance at Zimparks. Real-time processing, while correlated with payroll governance, does not independently predict it when the other three variables are present. Zimparks was recommended to prioritise the deployment of automated payroll calculation engines, invest in reliable digital record-keeping infrastructure, and implement integrated HR and payroll platforms. A three-phase technology-enhanced payroll governance framework was proposed, tailored to the resource-constrained public sector context of Zimbabwe.